Post by : Badri Ariffin

Dubai has formally wrapped up the second edition of National Month, a 30-day celebration that infused the city with pride, creativity, and remarkable public engagement. Organised by Brand Dubai, the creative wing of the Government of Dubai Media Office, this initiative showcased collaboration among over 250 government, semi-government, and private entities, emphasizing the city’s spirit of teamwork.

This year’s National Month highlighted significant national milestones, starting with Flag Day and culminating in the 54th Eid Al Etihad. All activities were presented under the #ZayedAndRashid theme, honoring the UAE's Founding Fathers—Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum—whose vision has been pivotal for the nation’s unity and growth.

From the outset, the month drew substantial public participation. Families, residents, and visitors engaged in events celebrating loyalty, identity, and unity—key values that the initiative sought to promote. The digital response was impressive too, with over 160,000 online posts, more than 75 million video views, and a remarkable global reach of 2.9 billion.

A notable aspect of this year’s festivities was the collaboration among various Dubai institutions. Government agencies, cultural organizations, community groups, and private enterprises came together to transform national values into enriching experiences. According to the organizers, this spirit of collaboration remains crucial for Dubai’s national events and fosters a stronger bond between citizens and the nation’s evolving vision.

Creative storytelling was a vital part of the month. Over 150 local businesses from the Proudly from Dubai initiative contributed, offering innovative and community-focused experiences. Their involvement bolstered local entrepreneurship and showcased Dubai’s rich creative landscape.

The festivities kicked off on November 3 with Flag Day. At the Dubai International Financial Centre, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum hoisted the UAE flag in front of the Gate Building, which featured an impressive artwork of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid crafted by Brand Dubai. This piece artfully combined elements of the UAE’s history with symbols representing its ambitions in innovation and space.

One of the standout attractions was the Flag Garden in Umm Suqeim 2, where 11,000 flags created a remarkable 60-by-90 metre portrait of the two leaders. Thousands flocked to see this spectacle throughout the month.

Celebrations persisted across the city, with various artistic and cultural initiatives. Dubai Metro carriages on the Red Line displayed images of the Founding Fathers alongside lines from the poem 'The People and the Leader'. The Firdaus Women’s Orchestra performed a special musical tribute inspired by this poem at Expo City Dubai, adding an international flair to the festivities.

Another standout highlight was an enormous 82-metre ground artwork near Dubai Frame. Crafted with multi-coloured gravel, this portrait of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid was designed for aerial viewing, making it one of the city’s most remarkable tributes during National Month.

The celebrations finally culminated on December 2 with the Al Etihad Parade. More than 500 vehicles took part in this vibrant procession, which began at Union House—where the Union was born—and ended at Burj Al Arab, symbolizing the UAE’s journey from its historic beginnings to its current accomplishments.

Focusing on community engagement, creative expression, and national pride, this year’s National Month vividly illustrated the deep connection people share with the UAE’s narrative and its aspirations for the future.

#Global News #Dubai